My First ZAA Annual Conference: Connection, Inspiration, and Gratitude in San Antonio

Written By Konnor Roberts

Editor’s note: Konnor joined ZDR3 as our first intern last summer. He now works part time with ZDR3 as he continues his college studies. 

A Week to Remember in San Antonio

The 2025 Zoological Association of America Annual Conference brought over 400 professionals from across the zoological community together for five short days in San Antonio, Texas. As a first-time attendee and new member of ZAA, I was struck by the energy, collaboration, and dedication that filled every session and conversation throughout the week. 

Learning and Inspiration

One session that truly stood out to me was Michelle Pardo’s keynote presentation, “Where the Wild Things Are: A New Legal Frontier for Zoo Advocacy.” The presented insights into the evolving legal landscape surrounding zoo advocacy were fascinating and thought-provoking. It was eye-opening to hear how new regulations and court cases are shaping the way zoological and animal care facilities operate and advocate for themselves. Her message strongly reinforced the importance of being informed and proactive in the evolving legal landscape — something I hope to carry forward in my own work.

Representing ZDR3

On left, a ZDR3 poster titled "How We Help" that includes information about disaster response. Beside it, a man in a gray shirt is leaning against a table talking to a women in a black shirt.

I enjoyed working at the ZDR3 table and talking to other conference attendees.

During the conference, I was able to spend time at the ZDR3 table, connecting with so many members of the ZAA community. I met folks from facilities already in our network, those who have supported ZDR3 during critical times, and others curious about how to get involved.

It was inspiring to see how many attendees recognized and valued ZDR3’s mission of preparedness and collaboration. I was able to share my personal story from a previously impacted facility where ZDR3 and its supporting members played a vital role in recovery. Seeing firsthand how that work continues to resonate with others reminded me why ZDR3’s mission matters so deeply — we are truly stronger together.

Moments I will Never Forget

One of the absolute highlights of the week was getting to meet Suzi Rapp. I grew up watching Jack Hanna, so meeting someone who worked so closely with him as a longtime colleague and friend felt almost unreal. We ended up having this amazing conversation — she shared stories from her career, and I got to talk about my own path and my goals. It was one of those moments that just sticks with you. What really struck me was how generous she was with her time and advice. It reminded me how influential people in this field can be — not just through their work, but through their generosity and willingness to share their stories and offer guidance and support to young professionals trying to find their way to success.

At left, a projected image of Julia Wilder with the title "Julia Wilder, Executive Director & Co-Founder, ZDR3." Beside it, a woman with blonde hair and a black shirt is walking towards a stage. At right, people are sitting at tables, applauding.

ZDR3 Director Julia Wilder walks to the stage to receive the ZAA 2025 Young Professional Award.

Another powerful moment was celebrating our very own Executive Director, Julia, as she received the 2025 Young Professional of the Year Award. Watching her walk on stage, knowing the dedication, compassion, and long hours she has poured into helping impacted facilities, filled me with pride. Julia embodies what it means to lead with heart and extreme courage - seeing her recognized for that was monumental.

An Unforgettable Dinner

One evening, the ZDR3 team gathered for a special dinner. As I looked at each side of where I was seated at the table, I was honestly in awe. Sitting beside me were Michael Fouraker (Director, Fort Worth Zoo / President, ZDR3), Bill Street (President & CEO, Zoo Knoxville / Director, ZDR3), Eric Trager (Director, Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo / Vice President, ZDR3), Erin McNally (Director of Crisis Response, GRAZE), and so many other respected leaders of our field. The conversation was lively and diverse — a table full of perspectives, experiences, and ideas!

On left, a young man is crouched down with a bowl of food beside a tapir, who is eating from the bowl.

I always dreamed of working at zoos

On the quiet walk back to the hotel, I reflected on that moment. I thought about how little Konnor — the kid who once dreamed of working in zoos — would be proud to see where I am today. Honestly, that realization brought a few tears to my eyes. It was a reminder of how far passion, perseverance, and community can take you.

Reflections and Gratitude

Attending the ZAA Annual Conference for the first time was far more than a professional milestone — it was a personal one. I left San Antonio with incredible new connections and a profound appreciation for the people who make this community so special. I am grateful to have the opportunity to represent ZDR3 among so many leaders and passionate members of the zoological community who genuinely share the same goal: building stronger, more resilient zoological institutions through collaboration and care. When I returned home, I felt inspired to keep learning, keep sharing, and keep strengthening the bridges between our facilities, because when we come together — to learn, to support, and to celebrate one another — we are truly stronger together.

Konnor Roberts

Konnor Roberts is a dedicated zoological conservationist who joined ZDR3 as a summer intern. He began his journey caring for ambassador animals at a young age and has since worked as a zookeeper, drawing from both paid and volunteer experiences. Konnor is completing his degree in Natural Resource Conservation Management at McNeese State University, where he serves as President of the Wildlife Club and volunteers with the National Audubon Society, contributing to waterfowl and marsh bird research. With personal experience of hurricanes and disaster response, he now supports ZDR3 in critical administrative and communications roles — and is ready to serve as a virtual responder during activations.

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ZDR3 Director Wins Award